The Australian Government has decided on a new bespoke local governance model for Norfolk Island, delivering on its commitment to restore local democracy.
A Norfolk Island Assembly will operate on four-year terms and comprise five elected members, including a full-time presiding officer.
It will be empowered to make local laws that support local service delivery.
There will be no changes to the application of Commonwealth laws to Norfolk Island, or the existing judicial framework and functions.
The Queensland Government will continue to deliver health support services, education, apprenticeships, traineeships, and correctional services.
The new model will come into effect by the end of 2025 or sooner, with the Norfolk Island Regional Council to continue providing services until the Assembly is established.
To support this transition, the government will extend the Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIGC)’s period of administration under the leadership of a new administration team.
Minister for Territories, Kristy McBain has appointed Scott Mason as Lead Administrator, alongside Gary Mottau as the Financial Administrator – both commencing on 6 December 2024, following the conclusion of existing Administrator, Mike Colreavy’s term.
Mr Mason has 32 years in local government including as a chief executive officer and now a consultancy owner.
Mr Mottau brings a wealth of financial and governance experience, and over four decades working with and in local government, including as a chief financial officer.
The new model was informed by the recommendations of the Norfolk Island Governance Committee (NIGC), which followed extensive community consultation.
The NIGC is now working on the detailed design of the revenue structure and integrity framework to support the Assembly, which will include ongoing community consultation.
Details on the election process will be outlined next year, with the Government also considering the proposed Preamble put forward by the NIGC.
The Assembly will be implemented through an ordinance under the Norfolk Island Act 1979, with planning for the draft legislation to support the new model also underway, with the opportunity for public comment in mid-2025.
